Fontainebleau State Park

If you’re in the mood for a relaxing day in the Louisiana swamps, take a day trip to Fontainebleau State Park located at 62883 LA-1089, Mandeville, LA 70448. This 2,800-acre state park was once home to a sugar cane plantation and brickyard. The park’s name comes from its namesake, Bernard de Marigny, who built the original mansion and was responsible for the original landscaping and landscape design.

You’ll love the pristine nature trails at Fontainebleau, which feature interpretive signs on native plants and animals. For a better understanding of the park’s diverse ecosystem, check out the Fontainebleau Birding Guide. The park is bordered by three bodies of water, so you’re sure to see plenty of different species of fish and birds in this natural park. The park is open every day from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., except Mondays. It closes at 10 p.m. on weekends and holidays.

For a family-friendly day trip, there are numerous activities in and around the park. The ruins of an old sugar mill, which was once home to a French king, still stand in the park’s woods. A scenic boardwalk that overlooks the saltwater marsh is another highlight. Bird watching is another great way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. In addition to hiking and cycling trails, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for bird watching.

Located in South Louisiana, Chicot State Park covers over six thousand acres and is home to Lake Chicot. There are boat launches, playgrounds, and hiking/backpacking trails that wind around the lake. The park also includes the Louisiana State Arboretum. The state arboretum offers an outdoor classroom and miles of nature trails. All are perfect for families, couples, and groups. You’ll have a great time exploring the area’s natural wonders.

The Fontainebleau State Park is home to some of the largest live oak trees in the entire state. The warm Gulf of Mexico weather helps these trees grow to their full size, often reaching 1500 years. Spanish moss grows on their branches. The trees provide habitat for many kinds of birds and wildlife. And as a bonus, the park is home to the state’s largest live oak trees. For bird watchers, this park is a must-see!

If you’re looking for a fun and active way to spend your day, take a bike ride on the Tammany Trace. The 31-mile bike path is flat, paved, and easily accessible. You can catch a guided swamp tour or a kayak tour while you’re out exploring the marsh, and seniors and children under three are admitted free of charge! There’s so much to do and see that you’ll never run out of ideas for fun. A fantastic read